After two seasons in the Arizona Rookie League, Argenis Blanco finally got the opportunity to pitch outside a complex league. Blanco threw 69.2 innings for the short-season Vermont Lake Monsters in 2017, posting a 5.30 ERA with a 48:25 K:BB.

Blanco, a 21-year-old right-hander from Venezuela, had a 3.83 ERA before the New York-Penn League All-Star break, but he struggled down the stretch. Blanco’s struggles during his final four starts were unusual because he struggled with his command. Throughout his career, Blanco has displayed excellent control.

Donald Moore spoke with Blanco in early August about his 2017 season.

Donald Moore: Hi Argenis, how is everything going for you so far this season?

Argenis Blanco: Everything is good. I’m very happy for the team that it is going very well.

DM: What are your goals for this year?

AB: Win the championship with my team.

DM: What do you feel is your greatest strength as a ball player?

AB: My mind. I think that is my most powerful thing I do very well.

DM: What would you like to improve on?

AB: Everything on my throwing and my conditioning. Get ready for my next outing.

DM: How many years have you’ve been in the Oakland A’s organization?

AB: Four years and this is my fifth.

DM: How old were you when you signed?

AB: 16 years old.

DM: How do you like being a professional baseball player?

AB: I like it very much because things in my country are tough, so we need to find a way to get out of the country, and it is not a very good experience.

DM: Any pre-game routine?

AB: Just listen to music. Always call my mom to say hi and get a blessing from her.

DM: Any hobbies?

AB: Just when I am home, I play a little pool.

DM: Where are you originally from?

AB: Caracas Venezuela.

DM: Favorite baseball team growing up?

AB: The Toronto Blue Jays.

DM: If there is one person who taught you the most about baseball, who would that be?

AB: My mom.

DM: Any off-season plans?

AB: Get ready for spring training, and I work.

DM: Thank you so much for your time and the best of luck to you and your future.